Distribution, sale of ganja and derivatives still illegal in Jamaica - CLA

A ganja nursery under development by Ganja Labs, in conjunction with University of Technology, Jamaica.

The Cannabis Licensing Authority (CLA) is warning that the distribution, sale and purchase of cannabis, cannabis-infused and cannabis-derived products are still illegal in Jamaica.

The warning by the CLA comes amid what is describes as a "proliferation of cannabis, cannabis-infused and cannabis-derived products, of both local and overseas origin, being made available and/or sold throughout Jamaica".

"The CLA wishes to make clear that to date, no licences, permits, approvals, or the like have been granted by the CLA to any individual, company or co-operative," the agency said in a release issued this afternoon.

According to the agency of government that is responsible for regulating the development of Jamaica's ganja industry, it began accepting applications for licences in June - a process that takes about five months.

Consequently, the CLA said "any cannabis product produced and/or sold in Jamaica is done so illegally".

The CLA said it held 11 stakeholder meetings with grassroots farmers, stakeholders and interested parties across the island in June and July to explain and solicit feedback on the interim regulations governing the development of the ganja industry. It said the feedback will likely result in amendments to the interim regulations.